High blood pressure complications
How high blood pressure damages the body:
Uncontrolled hypertension places continuous strain on artery walls. Over time, it can narrow, weaken or damage blood vessels and silently harm vital organs.
Stroke and memory problems:
Damaged brain vessels may become blocked or rupture, causing a stroke. Long-term vessel damage may also contribute to cognitive decline and vascular dementia.
Heart attack and heart failure:
Hypertension accelerates artery damage and increases the risk of a heart attack. The heart must work harder to pump blood and may gradually become enlarged, stiff or too weak to pump effectively.
Kidney damage:
High pressure can injure the small blood vessels that filter the blood, leading to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, kidney failure.
Eye damage:
Damage to the delicate blood vessels in the retina may cause blurred vision, bleeding inside the eye or permanent vision loss.
Peripheral artery disease:
Narrowed arteries can reduce blood flow to the legs, causing pain while walking, numbness, cold feet or slow-healing wounds.
Aortic aneurysm or dissection:
Persistent high pressure may weaken the wall of the aorta, increasing the risk of a dangerous bulge or tear.
How to reduce the risk:
Check your blood pressure regularly and take prescribed medicines consistently.
Reduce excess salt, stay active, maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, limit alcohol and attend regular medical check-ups. Controlling blood pressure significantly lowers the risk of serious organ damage.
When it may be an emergency:
A blood pressure above 180/120 mmHg with chest pain, breathing difficulty, weakness, numbness, vision changes, severe back pain or difficulty speaking requires immediate emergency care.
Medical disclaimer:
This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper blood pressure assessment, treatment and monitoring.
